If Mom's Happy, Everyone's Happy!

Most mothers do so much for their family; it leaves them little time to look after themselves. When they do take time out for self, the guilt can set in. Get rid of the guilt and focus on the benefits of looking after you!

If you are already taking time for yourself and feeling good about it - way to go - keep it up.

Happy, healthy, rejuvenated, recharged moms' make the best mom's. When you take time to look after yourself, you also show your children how important self-care is.

You can take care of yourself and still ensure your family is well taken care of as well. If you have a plan, you don't have to sacrifice one for the other. Pick one thing you absolutely love to do and commit a time to do it and mark in the calendar just as you would any other scheduled activity. Here are some ideas to think about:

• Exercise class
• Take a walk
• Meet some friends for dinner, coffee, movie etc.
• Go shopping
• Get a massage, pedicure, manicure etc.
• Volunteer time to charity
• Join the community theatre
• Take an art class
• Take a weekend away and sleep in
• Anything that you love to do without your kids or spouse - even for an hour a week - can recharge and rejuvenate your soul.

When you take time for yourself, you have more energy and patience to devote to the rest of the family! Remember, "If mom's happy, everyone's happy!"



Sam Rafoss, RSW - September 2005